Danger Reduces Restorative Effects (7-11-08)

Perceived danger reduces restorative effects. As Herzog and Rector state, “The presence of a serious and potentially uncontrollable source of danger can damage the perceived restorative potential of a setting.” Restoration in this context refers to reduction in mental stress or exhaustion. In the end, “People see little promise of restoration from a walk in the woods unless they feel safe.”

Thomas Herzog and Ashley Rector. 2008. “Perceived Danger and Judged Likelihood of Restoration.” Environment and Behavior, in press.